It has been another busy week for many of Australia's top brokers. This has led to the release of a number of broker notes.
Three broker buy ratings that you might want to know more about are summarised below. Here's why brokers think these ASX shares are in the buy zone right now:
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Cedar Woods Properties Ltd (ASX: CWP)
According to a note out of Bell Potter, its analysts have retained their buy rating on this property developer's shares with an improved price target of $9.70. This follows the release of a strong first quarter update and an upgrade to its net profit after tax guidance for FY 2026. Bell Potter notes that Cedar Woods is now guiding to net profit growth of 15% (from 10%). This reflects the strength of market conditions across its projects amid a highly supportive backdrop for Australian residential developers. And with momentum accelerating, Bell Potter suspects that Cedar Woods could still outperform its upgraded guidance in FY 2026 and is forecasting 17% profit growth this year. The Cedar Woods share price is trading at $8.65 on Friday.
Coles Group Ltd (ASX: COL)
A note out of Macquarie reveals that its analysts have retained their outperform rating on this supermarket giant's shares with an improved price target of $26.10. The broker highlights that Coles released a first quarter update which outperformed its main rival. This suggests that its market share gains have continued. And with Coles working hard to maintain its market share gains and investing heavily in automation, the broker believes the company is well-placed to deliver strong earnings growth in the next three years. The Coles share price is fetching $21.92 at the time of writing.
Universal Store Holdings Ltd (ASX: UNI)
Another note out of Bell Potter reveals that its analysts have retained their buy rating and $10.50 price target on this youth fashion retailer's shares. This follows the release of a strong trading update, which revealed that sales were up strongly during the first 17 weeks of FY 2026. Another positive was that its gross margin was ahead of expectations for the period. So, with Universal Store's shares trading at a discount to peers, the broker thinks that a buying opportunity has opened up. Especially given its longer term opportunity with three brands and organic gross margin expansion via private label product penetration. The Universal Store share price is trading at $8.97 today.
